Perspectives: One Person's Journey

Perspectives: One Person's Journey

Article excerpt

NRPA's new president shares his personal story to encourage others to serve.

As I begin my year as president of NRPA, I wanted to share my own story with the greater NRPA membership in an attempt to encourage others to take a step forward to becoming actively involved in our association.

I gravitated toward a career in the park and recreation field based on values instilled in me by my family at a very early age. I am truly proud of the work I do in concert with our staff in my position as director of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Brunswick, Maine-it adds to the fabric of our community and enhances the quality of life for those who live here.

I joined NRPA when I entered the park and recreation workforce because I thought the association could best provide me with tools to become better skilled at work. NRPA has certainly fulfilled this role for me.

As a young professional, I initially became active in my state association, which led to election to the NRPA New England Regional Council. I then served as an elected representative to the APRS Board of Directors and subsequently as a member of the NRPA Board of Trustees. During my tenure as a trustee, I served as chair of both the Public Policy and International Committees. Those who know me well also know of my commitment toward empowering others to become active in the area of advocacy for parks and recreation.

Soon, others began to encourage me to run for president-elect of the association. Having the support of so many citizen and professional peers is a very humbling realization that reflected others' confidence in my abilities to help lead the association. …